The Town of Shawangunk board passed two introductory local laws during its February 15 board meeting that would provide property tax exemptions to local, and volunteer first responders and help board members choose construction bids that best fit their needs.

The board first passed Introductory Local Law No. 1 of 2024, authorizing best-value purchasing when choosing a construction bid. This allows town board members to award purchase and service contracts to bids that they feel provide the “best value” while still being cost-efficient. The criteria that determine the best-value purchase can comprise several factors, including cost of maintenance, craftsmanship, and product performance.

The next resolution, Introductory Local Law No. 2 of 2024, provides a 10% property tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance service workers. The law applies to volunteers who live in and serve the town, and the exemption only applies to their residential properties. Volunteers will also need to show proof of their certification and submit an application to the town’s assessor.

Governor Kathy Hochul officially signed the law into legislation on December 9, 2024, and all municipalities must adopt the law by December 9, 2025.

Shawangunk’s neighbors, the Village and Town of Montgomery, will also review and adopt the law before the end of March.